If the Mets wrap up the NLCS on either Wednesday or Thursday in Chicago, they won’t only be sealing a trip to the World Series. They’ll also be able to set up their starting rotation any way they see fit for the next round.
With the World Series kicking off on October 27 in either Kansas City or Toronto, by winning the NLCS in either four or five games, the Mets would have at least four days off — regular rest for any starting pitcher — before the World Series.
Because the NLDS went five games, the Mets were forced to start Matt Harvey in Game 1 of the NLCS, which worked out when Harvey tossed a gem.